How to Swap Alt and Win Keys on Your Keyboard

If you need to swap the Alt and Win (Windows) keys on your keyboard, there are a few options. Doing this can enhance comfort, especially if you often switch between different operating systems or keyboard layouts.

1. Changing Key Layouts in Windows

In Windows, you have several ways to reassign keys, either with built-in options or third-party software:

  • Registry Editor: You can adjust the registry settings to reassign the Alt and Win keys. However, editing the registry should be done with caution, as it can affect system functionality.
  • Third-party software: An easier and safer method is to use tools like SharpKeys or KeyTweak, which allow you to remap keys without editing the registry.

Instructions for SharpKeys:

  1. Download and install SharpKeys.
  2. Open the program and click Add.
  3. Select the key you want to reassign (Alt) and specify that it should perform the Win function.
  4. Click Write to Registry and restart your computer to apply the changes.

2. Swapping Alt and Win Keys in macOS

If you’re working on a Mac, swapping the Option (Alt) and Command (Win) keys is also straightforward:

  1. Go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Modifier Keys.
  2. Select your keyboard from the dropdown menu.
  3. Reassign the Option and Command keys.
  4. Save the changes; they’ll take effect immediately.

3. Switching Alt and Win Keys in Linux

In Linux, there are several methods to reassign these keys:

  • Using GNOME Tweaks (for GNOME): In the Keyboard & Mouse section, you can select the desired modifier keys.
  • Using the command line: For temporary changes, use setxkbmap, or edit configuration files for a permanent remap.

Now that you know how to swap these keys on different operating systems, you can easily adjust your keyboard to fit your needs!